Richard Dawson has left his position as Yorkshire’s second XI coach to take on the head coach’s job at former county Gloucestershire.

Dawson returns to Bristol, where he left only last year, to replace New Zealander John Bracewell, meaning the White Rose are searching for the third second-team coach since December 2013.

The former Yorkshire, Gloucestershire and England off-spinner starts his new role at Nevil Road next week.

“This is my first head coach role, so I know it will be tough, but I am looking forward to the challenge,” said Dawson, 34-years-old, who spent five years at Gloucester as a player and on the coaching staff.

“During my time with Yorkshire, I was fortunate to work with some outstanding coaches, players and backroom staff. I learned a lot from them, and look forward to putting that into practice at Gloucestershire.

“We have a good young squad here, and my aim will be to help them compete in all competitions.

“We will be working hard every day to try and make the small improvements that will bring us success on the field.”

Paul Farbrace initially left Yorkshire in December 2013 to join Sri Lanka before Dawson took over last February.

“This has only just happened, so we’ve got a few discussions going on at the minute regarding what we are going to do next,” said White Rose director of professional cricket Martyn Moxon.

“At the moment, it’s new and we haven’t got a decision that has been made.

“It’s not an ideal situation. I’d like a bit of consistency with the second-team job, I must admit. Farby for a couple of years and Richard one is not great, but it’s been unavoidable really I think.

“Thankfully, it hasn’t adversely affected the players massively, but I would like a bit stability.”

Yorkshire chief executive Mark Arthur added: “We are disappointed to be losing him, he has been a crucial part of our coaching structure. However, we understand he’s an ambitious person who truly deserves this opportunity.

“His work with the second team and his assistance to Jason (Gillespie) with the first team throughout the year have been excellent, and we will all miss him and what he has brought to our club.”